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Millie Thom
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Shadow of the Raven (Sons of Kings Book 1) Kindle Edition

by Millie Thom (Author) Format: Kindle Edition
4.4 4.4 out of 5 stars 297 ratings
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By the mid ninth century, Danish raids on Anglo-Saxon kingdoms have escalated. Several bands even dare to overwinter on the coastal islands, particularly those at the mouth of the Thames, where the kingdoms of Wessex and Mercia border each other. The kings of these lands must put past hostilities aside and take the first steps towards unity; steps they see as vital in the face of this newfound threat to their lands.

Alfred of Wessex and Eadwulf of Mercia are the sons of kings, whose futures have been determined since birth. But the turbulent events in their childhood years change the natural progression of things and shape the characters of the men they will become. Their roads to manhood follow vastly different routes, but both learn crucial lessons along the way: lessons that will serve them well in future years.

Discovering that the enemy is not always a stranger is a harsh lesson indeed; the realisation that a trusted kinsman can turn traitor is the harshest lesson of all.
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  1. Book 1 of 4
    Sons of Kings
  2. Print length
    439 pages
  3. Language
    English
  4. Sticky notes
    On Kindle Scribe
  5. Publication date
    May 27, 2015
  6. File size
    954 KB
  7. Page Flip
    Enabled
  8. Word Wise
    Enabled
  9. Enhanced typesetting
    Enabled
  10. See all details
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Editorial Reviews

Review

"The book is an intricately detailed and fascinating read that brings history to life in a way that the reader can touch, smell and see clearly." Self-Publishing Review 4.5 *
"Thom did a great job of bringing her characters to life. They felt so real, as if they were really in that time period. I also loved the setting of this story. She must have done an amazing amount of research to make her story so accurate (or be part Viking herself)!" JJ Phillips: Readers' Favorite 5*

"Shadow of the Raven is a great debut for this series. Thom's knowledge about this ancient period is evident and she has successfully turned it into an engrossing story." Lit Amri: Readers' Favorite 5*

"I was pulled into the story right away and liked how Millie Thom writes - so effortless, it seems, but very descriptive and authentic, from the language to the tone. I was impressed with the level of detailing on almost every single aspect." Tabitha: Book Razor 5*

"I was mesmerized by the world Millie Thom creates, one so realistic and vivid, where we really feel like we are in another era, another time and place all together. But it feels so normal and real." Samantha Book Razor 4.5*

"Not only did I really enjoy reading this, I actually feel like I learned something more about this time period that I didn't know before. The flow was perfect, and keeps us hooked right until the end (loved it, btw - go Ulf!)" Esse Harmon: Book Razor 5*

"This book had much more depth and substance than many I've read, touching on issues like family religion, relationships, survival against all odds, life and death situations, heartbreak and redemption... so many layers it's hard not to become addicted. It is profound, provocative and eye-opening, and the way that Thom infused them with believable, flawed characters and a compelling story line based on real historical events - makes it feel that much more incredible." Laura: Book Razor 5*

Product details

  • ASIN ‏ : ‎ B00YFPOIMW
  • Publisher ‏ : ‎ Millie Thom; 1st edition (May 27, 2015)
  • Publication date ‏ : ‎ May 27, 2015
  • Language ‏ : ‎ English
  • File size ‏ : ‎ 954 KB
  • Simultaneous device usage ‏ : ‎ Unlimited
  • Text-to-Speech ‏ : ‎ Enabled
  • Screen Reader ‏ : ‎ Supported
  • Enhanced typesetting ‏ : ‎ Enabled
  • X-Ray ‏ : ‎ Not Enabled
  • Word Wise ‏ : ‎ Enabled
  • Sticky notes ‏ : ‎ On Kindle Scribe
  • Print length ‏ : ‎ 439 pages
  • Customer Reviews:
    4.4 4.4 out of 5 stars 297 ratings

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Millie Thom

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Customer reviews

4.4 out of 5 stars
4.4 out of 5
297 global ratings
Good historical accuracy and hard to put down story
5 Stars
Good historical accuracy and hard to put down story
Shadow of the Raven by Millie Thom is excellent. She has taken known history, chosen a point with some ambiguity, and woven her fiction seamlessly. While reading, I spot checked her history from time to time. To discover the accuracy of the event each time was this history buffs delight. As someone who enjoys researching to find Beorthwulf, the King of Mercia was involved in the Thanet landings. Still, his death appears to have no surviving record of exactly how he departed sometime around 851-852. The Anglo-Saxon Chronicles suggest Beorthwulf was put to flight by this invasion. The event of his death was well written. Thom using the ambiguity of his death as a springboard to the deeper story.For a novel which is primarily driven by politics, Anglo-Saxon's, and Danish raiders, another delight is the word Viking only appeared in the "About This Book" section, in reference to other books. This is no one sided account. Thom's tale shows us both the good and bad parts of two societies, Anglo-Saxons and the Danes. These people are human. Just as we are today. They have similar desires, wants, and needs. You'll find a full spectrum of the human condition in these people. A portion of my marvel of Thom's work is her ability to have we, as modern humans, identify with these people of 1,100 years ago.Shadow of the Raven by Millie Thom lovingly and with passion created a compelling novel. A tale of intrigue, adventure, and revenge that would enthrall Machiavelli. This is a well told tale for a wide variety of readers. A brilliant start to the series sure to grace my bookshelves.
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Top reviews from the United States

Lizzy
5.0 out of 5 stars Brilliant, rich, and colorful storytelling!
Reviewed in the United States on March 31, 2021
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I really enjoy historical fiction, but it is simultaneously difficult for me because I don’t have the same points of reference as I do when reading other books, requiring me to stuff a lot of new information into a leaky brain. That said, I’m always fascinated to learn about other times in history, especially through the stories of those (both fictional and real) who lived in those times.

This book (series, actually) came highly recommended to me. The ninth-century, when the Danes raided Anglo-Saxon kingdoms, is a time that I had only the vaguest knowledge about, emphasis on the word “vague.” The author’s extraordinary and rich storytelling was as gripping to me as it was educational.

It was especially interesting to learn how the status of a person could drastically change depending on events that transpired … such as being the son of a King in Mercia to a thrall to a Dane. Relationships are always complex things, ever-changing, especially when they are not established as mutual choice of both parties, and when circumstances completely transform a child’s life and determine his or her future. The author beautifully weaves Issues of loyalty, trust, and revenge into her characters, as these are most certainly central themes in history.

What I really enjoyed what that I learned so much but never felt that the author was putting in a lot of detail for the sake of it, yet, in the telling of this story, she infused such rich detail and even for a reader like me who knows so little about this time, I never was without a visual in my head – the mark of a great storyteller like Millie Thom.

When time permits, I want to read more in this series. Considering all that I learned from this book along, I know I won’t be disappointed. Highly recommend!
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Lauren
4.0 out of 5 stars A Dive into Viking Lore and Culture
Reviewed in the United States on April 3, 2021
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I am so happy I chose to read this book. I received a free copy of this e-book in exchange for an honest review, via Booktasters. Not only did it help teach me quite a lot about the way of life of the Vikings but it also allowed plenty of creativity by following the story of the fictional sons of Kings. We get to see familiar people from the story of Ragnar Lothbrok but gain a unique POV from new characters. What a fun idea!

It was fascinating to explore the politics of the time. We see the life of the Vikings and those most impacted by their raids. At different times we may feel sympathy, understanding and rage for their decisions and way of life but the story is not moralized or preachy, the author tells the story with objectivity and accuracy and allows the reader to form their own views and perceptions. This allows for greater complexity for the characters.

The setting is brought to life through detailed descriptions and well-researched historical accuracy. The feasts, tools, setting, and religious traditions of the Vikings and of the Mercians were so well-explored and provided digestible insight for both those familiar and those completely new to the culture and lore.

I would like the see the author do a little bit more character work in future books since some characters seem better fleshed-out than others. But overall, the prose is strong, the descriptions feel natural and charming and the depth of knowledge and information is impressive.
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Frances
5.0 out of 5 stars An authentic spin on a dark period of history.
Reviewed in the United States on June 14, 2021
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When I finished reading Shadow of the Raven, I put the book aside for a week before writing a review. Not because I had nothing to say, but because it made me think. Most period novels I’ve read make me want to travel to the past and experience what it’s like to live in that time. This book, however, made me very happy to be living in the 21st century.
Shadow of The Raven is the story of Eadwulf, a Mercian Royal who is betrayed by his brother and enslaved by Vikings. What the author, Millie Thom, manages to capture is the horror and uncertainty of everyday life in 7th century Europe. One day you could be a free aristocrat, and the next you could find yourself a thrall to the Danes with no rights and dependent on the master who buys you. 
There’s no judgement of any of the characters in the book. Thom puts the reader into the mind of each of the characters and through them we experience the customs and beliefs of that period. I’ve read a few period novels that have traces of 21st century values, and so it’s refreshing to read a book that pays no homage to the current day’s sentimentalities. The characters, therefore, feel authentic.
What I appreciated most about this book was the way the female characters were handled. Several of the protagonists were women in situations where they had no autonomy. Several were to be wed to men they had never met, and one was concubine to an abusive master. When you have characters whose life choices are not theirs to make, it can be difficult not judge their situation, and, more importantly not to identify more with their male counterparts who have autonomy and partake in swashbuckling adventures. However, Thom is careful to ensure her female characters are equally interesting, for she delves into the psychology of these women and their inner dilemmas as they try to justify their life to themselves. In fact, some achieve happy marriages, while others struggle to communicate with their husbands. These women also have rich social lives and long-lasting friendships. 
Overall, Shadow of the Raven is a fascinating read for anyone who is interested in an authentic spin on one of the darkest and complex periods of European history. 
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Top reviews from other countries

Books are my favourite human beings!
4.0 out of 5 stars A good historical masterpiece
Reviewed in India on November 19, 2023
Verified Purchase
Millie Thom takes readers on a gripping journey to the mid-ninth century in her historical fiction masterpiece, "Shadow of the Raven” the first book in the Sons of Kings series. Set against the backdrop of escalating Danish raids on Anglo-Saxon kingdoms, Thom weaves a tale of political intrigue, familial bonds, and the harsh realities of a kingdom under threat.

The novel opens with a landscape marked by Danish raids, daring enough to overwinter on the coastal islands at the mouth of the Thames. The kingdoms of Wessex and Mercia, despite past hostilities, must unite in the face of this newfound threat. At the center of this tumultuous time are Alfred of Wessex and Eadwulf of Mercia, sons of kings whose destinies were predetermined by birthright. However, the turbulence of their childhood years alters the course of their lives, shaping them into men of resilience and strength.

What sets "Shadow of the Raven" apart is the nuanced portrayal of the protagonists, Alfred and Eadwulf. As their paths to manhood diverge, readers witness the evolution of two distinct characters, each learning crucial lessons that will shape their destinies. The narrative expertly navigates the complexities of loyalty and betrayal, emphasizing the harsh reality that the enemy is not always a stranger and that trusted kin can turn traitor.

Thom's storytelling is both vivid and meticulous. The political intricacies and the urgency of unity against a common enemy are palpable. The author skillfully portrays the societal upheavals and challenges faced by the characters. The historical context serves as a rich tapestry for the exploration of themes such as duty, honor, and the sacrifices required for the greater good. With its well-drawn characters, intricate plot, and historical authenticity, this book is a must-read for fans of historical fiction.
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HM Holten
5.0 out of 5 stars Finding Balance Among Vikings
Reviewed in Germany on July 12, 2019
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In Mercia, the Vikings raid with impunity. That makes it easy for an envious brother to stage fratricide and usurp power. The true king’s family suffers the consequences. Millie Thom brings political tensions, greed, and resentment to life. There is a gallery of believable characters, led by to boys, Eudwulf and Alfred. Through his captivity and thraldom, Eudwulf becomes familiar with Danish everyday life. To survive, he gets involved and learns to appreciate that Vikings aren’t all monsters. That doesn’t mean that he stops wishing for revenge, both against the Viking that killed his father and against the Mercian Traitor. Back in Mercia, Alfred lives a toddler’s life, although he early develops an awareness that not everybody can be trusted.
Ms Thom shows her deep understanding of the historical period and presents her readers with a vivid tapestry of heroes and villains, Christianity and Norse mythology, day to day life, festivities, and raids. The battles are brutal. The love scenes are mesmerizing. In short, nothing is missing in this glimpse of ancient times. A well-rounded read that is engrossing from the beginning to the end. Highly recommended.
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maureen turner-books by maureen
5.0 out of 5 stars Ninth century Danish/British conflict
Reviewed in the United Kingdom on June 19, 2019
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What an opening to a three book series SHADOW OF THE RAVEN is. The title will become clear later in the book. We all know about the bloody conflict between the raiding Danes and the defending Britons of the ninth century but Ms Thom brings it all to life in the opening book of this series. The two main protagonists are Alfred who of course did exist and Eadwulf who is a fictional character. Only once have I read a historical novel based on a fictional character and that was Amber St Clare in FOREVER AMBER. I liked how Millie Thom breathed life into this figment of her imagination. By creating Eadwulf, she cleverly gives the reader an insight into Danish life from a British slave's point of view. The story alternates between Alfred's privilidged life as the youngest son of the Wessex King Athelwulf and Eadwulfthe (the fictional) son of King Beorhwulf of Mercia. Their lives are very different because Eadwulf is captured and sold in to slavery by raiding Danes. whereas Alfred grows up the pamered son of a loving religious family. This author knows her history and paints a colourful picture of both Danish and British life in a time when life was hard and death came easily. As in all good novels there has to be a truly dreadful villain and this surely has to be Rorik. Throughout this book I was willing some form of retribution to put an end to his cruelty. Did he get his 'comeuppance'? You will have to read the book to find out. I have already downloaded the next two books in this series. This is definitely a Five Star read and comes highly recommended.
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Christine J Randall
5.0 out of 5 stars It truly soars.
Reviewed in Australia on January 4, 2015
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Shadow of the Raven is beautifully written, edited and formatted. The story follows the early years of Alfred of Wessex and the fictitious Eadwulf of Mercia: the sons of kings.

The unfamiliar names are hard to grip at first, but ring with charm: Morwenna, Ocea, Aethelnoth, Thrydwulf, Burgred, Sigehelm, Beorhtwulf, Beornred, Aethelbald, Osbuh, and Aethelswith! The Old English for Alfred is Aelfred or Aefraed. I'm happy the author stuck with Alfred. A handy cast of Characters helps you keep track.

SPOILER ALERT.

The story opens in 851, at a time when the fierce Danes (Vikings) routinely plundered Western Europe. Betrayed by one of their own, the Mercians fall to the Danes. His father slain, young Eadwulf is taken away as a slave. Morwenna, his mother, is also captured. Much later, their brief reunion is one of the most poignant scenes in this tale.

We are given a glimpse of Alfred the Great's early life. When we leave him, he is barely nine years old but we see how a trip to the Holy City when he was only four shaped his beliefs. Two years after his mother dies, young Alfred accompanies his father on a second voyage to Rome. Before they leave, King Aethelwulf splits Wessex in two, setting a son to rule each part in his absence. This abdication makes things difficult on his return in 856.

Earlier, in May 853, Alfred's sister Aethelswith marries Burgred, now King of Mercia, sealing the liaison between the two kingdoms.

It is difficult to believe that Eadwulf of Mercia isn't a real person telling his own tale - his new life of slavery in a bewildering Danish culture is so richly portrayed. Reviled by his first master's wife, he finds himself befriended by his new owner until he falls in love with the wrong girl. To save his life, Eadwulf must leave, and find his way home to Mercia. But first, there is a matter of revenge to be sorted. I wonder if his savage upbringing will have consequences on his return.

I loved Bernard Cornwell's Saxon Tales, and looked forward to Millie Thom's Book Two, beginning in 864, confident she will give a vibrant account of the next few years.

Fortunately I did not have to wait long for Book Two - The Pit of Vipers has just been released. I could have asked for a review copy, but I hold the standard of the author's research and her writing in high regard and was only too happy to buy myself a copy as soon as I saw it available. I hope Millie Thom writes fast.

NOTE: Shadow of the Raven is Book One of the Sons of Kings trilogy. I received a free kindle copy of this historical novel from the author, Millie Thom, in return for a review.
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Chris Thorndycroft
4.0 out of 5 stars Well researched and nicely plotted
Reviewed in the United Kingdom on January 18, 2019
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This tale of a Saxon boy captured by Vikings treads similar territory to Bernard Cornwell’s The Last Kingdom but that is only part of the story. In an intricate tapestry involving many characters, we see the struggles of a young Alfred of Wessex, raids on the domain of Charles the Bald and a heartbreaking story of a mother forced to be the concubine of her husband’s murderer. Fans of the TV series Vikings will get a kick out of seeing several of its characters pop up here. Well researched and nicely plotted, Shadow of the Raven immerses the reader in a realistic portrayal of Northern Europe in the 9th century.
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